Shelter fundraiser reaches new heights
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — A fundraiser last week for the Central Aroostook Humane Society reached new heights, with proceeds from a balloon ride raffle helping to provide necessities for homeless pets in central Aroostook County.
Photos courtesy of Dena Winslow
Balloon pilot Joel Jones from Alabama (pictured holding the balloon) was a recent guest of the Aroostook Band of Micmacs Education Department. The children learned a lot about how hot air balloons work, including how pilots use the “piball” or “pilot balloon” to check what the winds are doing above the ground. Here, Joel prepares to send off a piball for the children to watch. Joel was in Presque Isle for the Crown of Maine Balloon Festival Aug. 22-25.
A TICKET for a free balloon ride was donated by balloon pilot Joel Jones to the Crow’s Nest in Presque Isle, with the ticket raffled off to raise funds for the Central Aroostook Humane Society. Drawing the winning name is Nancy Nichols, shelter board member, joined by Jim Stacey, owner of the Crow’s Nest. 
Jim Stacey, owner of The Crow’s Nest Restaurant and Events Center on Maysville St. in Presque Isle, came up with the idea as a way to help the nonprofit aid animals in need.
“I’d asked some of the pilots to donate rides for fund-raising activities. Joel Jones of Alabama, pilot of Wind Spirit, donated the ride,” said Stacey.
“Joel was all for the cause,” said Stacey.
A total of 20 tickets were sold for $10 each, raising $200 for the Humane Society.
“This money is very much appreciated. It will help us care for the homeless pets in our care,” said Chris Robinson, shelter director.
The winning ticket was drawn on Wednesday, Aug. 21, at The Crow’s Nest by Nancy Nichols, member of the shelter’s board of directors. Winning the free balloon ride during the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest was Doug Beaulieu of Washburn. That same evening Stacey presented Robinson with the $200 check.
Stacey said he’d like to see this raffle become an annual event.
“We host a breakfast for the balloonists during the festival. The public loves having them here. Raffling off a balloon ride gives the balloonist(s) and ticket buyers an opportunity to help local nonprofits — in this case the animal shelter. We’d love to continue hosting this as part of festival activities,” said Stacey. “The winner gets an awesome experience and funds raised help an agency in need.”
Jones did more than just donate a balloon ride while visiting Aroostook County. He took time during his stay to visit with Micmac children, demonstrating how balloonists determine if it’s safe to fly using a test balloon. He also answered the children’s questions about his hobby.
